A raw Chocolate Orange Hazelnut Mousse that’s low in sugar, but big on taste

From Christine Bailey’s The Raw Food Diet.

This is a creamy, rich mousse, perfect for satisfying chocolate cravings. Instead of sugar, it uses xylitol, a natural, low glycemic sweetener, which can help to keep your blood sugar levels stable. And as well as being delicious and low-carb, it’s also packed with super-healthy ingredients. Raw cacao powder – derived from cold-pressed cacao beans – is packed with antioxidants (flavanols and polyphenols) and oranges, like other citrus fruits, are known for their immune-boosting properties. Add to this the healthy fats in the hazelnuts and avocados, and you can be sure that this indulgent-tasting dessert actually has some serious health credentials.

Chocolate-Orange Hazelnut Mousse

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 10 minutes, plus 30 minutes chilling

 
2 avocados, halved, pitted and chopped
juice and zest of 2 oranges, plus extra to serve
55g/2oz hazelnut butter
35g/1¼oz/¼ cup hazelnuts
50g/1¾oz/scant ½ cup raw cacao powder
2 tbsp xylitol or other sweetener, to taste
 

1. Place all the ingredients in a food processor with 125ml/4fl oz/½ cup water and process until very smooth. Add a little extra water to thin, if needed.

2. Chill for 30 minutes before serving. Top with a little orange zest.

 
 
Looking for a raw food diet plan? Christine Bailey’s The Raw Food Diet shows you how to plan a weekend-long raw food blitz, and week long booster diet, and how to get the benefits of a raw food diet forever in her diet plan for life.

Just as importantly, The Raw Food Diet tells you what to eat, why and when, with a selection of delicious and satisfying recipes.

Find out more and order the book with free UK postage.